South Africa unveiled the southern hemisphere's largest telescope Thursday.

Scientists say it will allow them to study galaxies and stars one billion times too faint to be seen by the naked eye. The South Africa Large Telescope, or SALT, will also be able to record light as dim as a candle flame on the moon.

The official unveiling ceremony at Sutherland in South Africa's Karoo's region was attended by scientists and dignitaries, including President Thabo Mbeki.

Mr. Mbeki told the crowd that even people who know nothing about astronomy have waited for this new telescope with great anticipation in the hopes of learning new and as unknown things about mankind.